Allergic Rhinitis

The Allergic Rhinitis Interest Group diagnoses and treats allergic rhinitis, which is characterized by symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching, and rhinorrhea (running nose), and may be seasonal or year-round.

Allergy and immunology specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation including environmental history and physical. This will include reviewing of outside information provided by the patient. Typically, allergen skin prick testing and rhinoscopy (viewing of the nasal passages, sinuses and upper airway) are also performed.

The allergist will outline a treatment regimen emphasizing allergen-avoidance strategies, medications and perhaps immunotherapy. If recommended, immunotherapy can be administered at Mayo Clinic, or the immunotherapy mix can be mailed to the patient's primary physician or clinic where it can be administered.

Follow-Up

Patients can be followed on a regular basis — at daily, weekly, monthly, or other intervals as necessary. Acute same-day visits are available during the week. An allergy physician available 24 hours a day for emergencies.

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